Grammy Winning Gospel producer Kirk Franklyn is facing backlash online after his dressed down yet spirited performance at Fun In The Sun Concert at Jamaica’s National Stadium on Saturday April 20 drew comments from conservative Jamaicans.
The Revolution singer’s last time in Jamaica was ten years ago and he flexed his muscles while screaming Kingston! taking turns to do the two step as he lead the choir into his 25 year career of hits. Dressed in an island wear cotton marina and blue jeans shorts, the American songwriter, choir director, gospel singer, and rapper entertained the participating crowd as sweat dripped down his body forms hour long set.
Kevin Downswell, one of the performers at the event and a leading gospel singer in Jamaica, observed the profound impact the concert had on the audience, noting, “The people came there to really have fun in the Son. They were really blessed and lifted.” This sentiment echoed throughout the event, as individuals reveled in the joyous atmosphere and spiritual upliftment.
Downswell however, pointed to the importance of understanding and respecting cultural differences between gospel fans in Jamaica and elsewhere. He remarked, “Regards to Kirk (Franklyn), people are different, you will have a group of people who are fine with it and some aren’t fine with it.” As someone experienced in event planning, the Carry Me singer stressed the conservative need for mindfulness regarding attire and stage presence, stating, “So watch the dress and be conscious about what you have onstage. It’s ministry.”
Drawing from biblical teachings, Downswell quoted, “The Bible says if me eating something causes another man to fall I will not eat it so I want to remove any hindrance that will hinder the ministry.”
He did however express his awe and appreciation for the event, stating, “The concert was amazing, top level and remarkable.” He gave a special shoutout to the Jamaica Broilers family and Tommy Cowan for orchestrating such an incredible gathering.
Looking ahead to future events, Downswell expressed his intention to integrate these valuable lessons into his own endeavors. “I’m just learning from that and carrying it forward into my event that I am putting on in July. We are a different set of people,” he affirmed.
Kirk Franklyn’s career began with groups like “The Family,” “God’s Property,” and “One Nation Crew,” earning him recognition and numerous awards, including 20 Grammy Awards. Franklin transitioned to a successful solo career, releasing seven studio albums including “The Rebirth of Kirk Franklin” (2002), “Hero”(2005), “The Fight Of My Life” (2007),”Hello Fear” (2011), “Losing My Religion” (2015), “Long, Live, Love (2019) and his last album “Father’s Day” in 2023.
Aside from music, Franklin has authored books, hosted TV shows, and ventured into film. He’s also known for his philanthropy and activism within the gospel music community. In his personal life, Franklin is married to Tammy Collins, and they have four children together.
